Thankful Crafts

Thankful Crafts

Thankfully, it is that time of year again! Time to think outwardly of all the ways that people in our lives have put others first, and given us reason to say “thank you”.

Faithful readers of Parenting Academy all have at least one thing in common this thankful season – parenting! Whether you have children by birth, by adoption, by mentoring, or by family, allow us to join you in giving thanks for the endless treasure that they are.

The fall season is often prime opportunity for crafty ideas when hosting children. If the weather outside is frightful, grab some glue and paper! If it is delightful, then start collecting colorful leaves, pine cones, and twigs. We have some brilliantly simple plans for your Thanksgiving time at the table with kiddos young and old.

Paper Turkey

Essentials:

Paper

Pen

Fancy Extras:

Multi-colored construction paper

Markers and crayons

Toilet-paper rolls

Googly eyes (dollar or craft store)

With a few minutes spent cutting out shapes while a parent takes notes, your kiddos can have an eye-catching display of their sweet gratitude.

While the bags are still flat, grab your favorite color and begin drawing your tee-pees to life. Once your little artists are finished, unfold the bags and tie off the top. To finish this craft off, an adult can cut strips in to the top part of the tee-pee, and triangular door into the bottom part. Viola! Now their favorite dolls, ponies, and army men can host a grand opening!

Paper Leaf Wreath

Essentials:

Paper

Scissors

String, yarn, or twine

Pen, crayon, or marker

Glue or tape

Fancy extras:

Multi-colored construction or card-stock paper

Ribbon

Beads

While warming up after an afternoon of autumn playtime, sit down for some hot cocoa or tea and help your littles cut leave or acorn shapes out of paper. Ask them what they have been given this past year, and what they are grateful for, and take note of their answers. Show them how to arrange their thankful leaves in a circle and glue or tape them together. Lay string down along the back of the circle of leaves, and glue it down. Allow enough string to hang up your wreath once the glue is dry!

What other brilliant, crafty creations will you be attempting with your kids this Thanksgiving? Share your creative ideas, parents! Happy holidays from Parenting Academy.

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Mandi Fuller is a wife, mother, sister, adoring friend, mischievous cohort, devotee of the Oxford comma, and avid chronicler of life. She earned her Master's Degree in biblical counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary, and currently spends her days nourishing the bellies and souls of her children. She believes wholeheartedly in the power of community, the wisdom of experience, and the clarity of hindsight. You can follow Mandi at Dirty Soap.